The Future of Defense: A Message China Can’t Ignore
The U.S. Army’s recent firing of the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) in Australia marks a significant milestone in the realm of defense and strategic posturing. This event, which took place as part of the Talisman Sabre 23 large-scale exercise, is not just a routine military drill. It’s a clear indication of the evolving dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region and the changing nature of alliances and defense strategies.
The Talisman Sabre exercise, which saw participation from 30,000 personnel from 13 nations, is the 10th iteration of a biennial event that began in 2005. Originally a U.S.-Australia affair, its expansion to include other nations underscores the growing importance of collaborative defense efforts in the region. The exercise showcased the U.S.’s formidable firepower, including the M142 High Mobility Rocket Artillery System (HIMARS), M777A2 howitzers, and an aerial assault comprising the F-35B Lightning II, AC-130, AH-1Z Viper, and the AH-1 Super Cobra.
The significance of this event is twofold. Firstly, it provides a glimpse into the future of Australia’s defense capabilities. The Australian Armed Forces are on the brink of acquiring the potent ATACMS, a move that will considerably bolster their defense prowess. Secondly, and perhaps more importantly, the firing of the ATACMS in Australia sends a clear message to China, a nation that has been increasingly assertive in its territorial claims and actions in the region.
The backdrop to this evolving defense landscape is the changing nature of Australia-China relations. Once cordial, the relationship has soured in recent years, especially under the leadership of President Xi Jinping. Tensions escalated when Australia called for a transparent investigation into the origins of the coronavirus, leading to retaliatory economic measures from China. The Chinese threat, both economic and military, has become more palpable, prompting nations like Australia to rethink their defense strategies.
The ATACMS, manufactured by U.S. defense company Lockheed Martin, is a formidable weapon. With a range of up to 190 miles and a flight ceiling of 30 miles, it’s designed for speed, accuracy, and precision. Its ballistic nature and high speeds make it a challenge to intercept, offering a strategic advantage in modern warfare. The missile’s design, with a lid patterned with six circles, makes it difficult for enemy intelligence to identify it as a high-value target, adding to its strategic value.
Australia’s decision to acquire the ATACMS and its emphasis on long-range fires is a reflection of its defense strategic review. The review underscores the importance of standoff strike capabilities, especially in the face of threats posed by nations like China. As part of its defense strategy, Australia is also looking to acquire air-launched AGM-158B Joint Air to Surface Standoff Missiles (JASSM-ER) and sea-launched Tomahawk cruise missiles. The ATACMS fits seamlessly into this strategy, offering a potent addition to Australia’s arsenal.
The mobility of the HIMARS, which houses the ATACMS, is another strategic advantage. Designed to be transported in a C-130 Hercules, a fleet that the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) already operates and plans to expand, the HIMARS can be swiftly moved to different locations. Its cross-country capability further ensures that preemptive strikes to neutralize it are challenging.
In conclusion, the firing of the ATACMS in Australia is not just a military exercise. It’s a statement of intent, a demonstration of collaborative defense efforts, and a clear message to potential adversaries. As nations in the Indo-Pacific region recalibrate their defense strategies in the face of evolving threats, collaborative exercises like Talisman Sabre and the acquisition of advanced defense systems will play a crucial role in ensuring peace and stability in the region.
